Tim Harris
Technical Director

Tim is Technical Director at Empirical Design, with over 20 years’ experience delivering successful projects across engineering, product development, and manufacturing‑led construction systems. He has a strong track record of taking products from concept to market, including automated design tools and innovative building systems. Tim excels at turning complex technical projects into clear, coherent, and buildable design strategies, combining deep engineering insight with a practical, collaborative approach.

Zoe Barraclough
Operations Director

Zoe is Operations Director at Empirical Design, with over 10 years of experience across R&D tax, innovation support, and technical client delivery. She specialises in building clear, reliable processes that help teams identify genuine innovation and evidence it effectively. Zoe combines strong technical understanding with trusted client relationships, ensuring projects run smoothly from first engagement to final delivery. Her focus is on maintaining consistently high‑quality outcomes and operational clarity across the business.

Jon Connor
Commercial Director

Jon is Commercial Director at Empirical Design, with over 13 years’ experience helping design‑led and engineering‑focused organisations discover the financial support needed to drive innovation. He specialises in R&D tax relief, innovation incentives, Patent Box, and grant funding, translating complex technical activity into strategic reports that inform commercial decision‑making. Jon works closely with teams to align commercial strategy, IP, and innovation outcomes, building long‑term, practical client partnerships.

Kris Holland
Product Design Engineer

Kris is a Product Design Engineer with 13 years’ experience in construction and fenestration. He applies lean principles to turn complex challenges into high-quality products and is currently developing his leadership skills through the APM Project Management Qualification. Passionate about sustainable materials and innovative manufacturing, Kris aims to create structural solutions that set new standards in off-site construction while positively impacting the environment. Outside of work, he enjoys an active family life, outdoor adventures, and staying fit.

Becca Walsh
Marketing

Becca leads marketing at Empirical Design, bringing a clear, design‑focused approach to communicating technical and innovation‑led work. She combines curiosity with strong visual and editorial judgement to shape complex engineering ideas into compelling, well‑crafted communication. Her work spans brand, content, and presentation across the business, ensuring consistency and clarity. Known for her collaborative style and attention to detail, Becca helps teams present their work with confidence and impact.

Oliver 
Product Design Apprentice

Oliver is a Design Engineering Apprentice, bringing a curiosity-driven and hands-on approach to product innovation. He explores how emerging technologies and 3D‑printed solutions can shape the design and development of new products. Focused on mastering CAD and leading his own projects, Oliver combines technical insight with practical problem-solving to tackle complex design challenges. Known for his creativity and attention to detail, he contributes to developing innovative solutions and advancing future product patents.

Tim Harris
Technical Director
Zoe Barraclough
Operations Director
Jon Connor
Commercial Director
Kris Holland
Product Design Engineer
Becca Walsh
Marketing
Oliver 
Product Design Apprentice